Everything that makes
the 219 feel like home
Welcome to Lovingthe219, a living field journal of Lake County, Indiana. I'm Liz, a lifelong resident and Realtor, and this is my curated guide to the neighborhoods, events, food spots, and hidden corners that make this corner of Northwest Indiana worth knowing.
- Region
- Lake County, IN
- Area Code
- 219
- Towns
- Munster, Highland, Crown Point, Schererville, Dyer, St. John, Hammond, Cedar Lake & more
- Curated By
- Liz, lifelong 219 resident
Loving the 219 is your community guide to Lake County, Indiana. We cover the best neighborhoods, restaurants, outdoor adventures, events, and things to do across Munster, Highland, Schererville, Dyer, St. John, Crown Point, Hammond, Cedar Lake, and beyond. Whether you are a lifelong resident or just getting to know the area, there is always something new to discover.
Events & Festivals
Seasonal happenings, annual festivals, and community gatherings across the 219.
ExploreDining & Restaurants
From Teibel's in Schererville to Lucrezia in Crown Point — the eats that define the county.
ExploreOutdoor & Recreation
Trails, lakes, parks, and the nature preserves you didn't know existed out here.
ExploreDog Lovers Guide
Parks, trails, restaurants, and activities for you and your four-legged friend across the 219.
ExploreShopping & Entertainment
Antiques, boutiques, craft breweries, and the entertainment spots worth your weekend.
ExploreEvery town in Lake County has its own personality. Here are four places I know inside and out, and the ones I'd put on your must-visit list.
Crown Point
The antique courthouse square
Historic downtown, boutique shopping, and the courthouse square — this is where small-town charm meets weekend adventure.
Read the field notes
Munster
Parks, beer, and a great school system
Centennial Park, Three Floyds Brewing, top-rated schools, and one of the best park systems in the region.
Read the field notes
Cedar Lake
Lakeside living at its finest
The largest natural lake in Northwest Indiana. Boating, fishing, summer beaches, and that vacation-home feel — year round.
Read the field notes
Highland
Where golf meets grit
Highland Golf Course, a revitalized downtown strip, and some of the best diners in the county — Highland keeps it real.
Read the field notes
Hi, I'm Liz.
I didn't just stumble into this.
I grew up helping my parents manage rental properties, bought my first home near Wrigley Field straight out of college, and later turned it into a profitable investment. I've personally bought and sold 6 properties, managed vacation rentals for 12+ years, and spent 30+ years in marketing for global brands. I know the excitement. I know the nerves. I know sticker shock and the relief of closing day.
I created Lovingthe219 because I believe Lake County is one of the most underrated places to live in the Midwest — and I want to show you why.
Latest from the journal
Seasonal guides, local stories, and insider tips from someone who's spent a lifetime in the 219.
The Ultimate Pizza Lover's Guide to Northwest Indiana
From Gelsosomo's thin crust in Crown Point to Giuseppe's in Schererville and Aurelio's across the county, discover the best pizza spots in the 219.
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Local Shopping & Small Business Guide: Boutiques, Markets & Unique Finds Across Northwest Indiana
From Crown Point's courthouse square boutiques to Munster's Centennial Village and Highland's vintage shops, discover the best local stores and artisan markets across the 219.
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The Arts, Culture & Live Entertainment Scene in Northwest Indiana
From Broadway-caliber theatre in Munster to intimate music venues in Hobart and galleries across the 219, a local's guide to the arts in Northwest Indiana.
Read moreSummer in the 219 is never quiet
From the Lake County Fair to Crown Point's Thursday Car Cruise, from Munster's Decades Festival to lakeside nights at Cedar Lake — there's always something on the calendar.
See all events
Planning a move to Lake County?
Whether you're relocating from across town or across the country, I'd love to help you find the right neighborhood for your life. No pressure, no sales pitch. Just honest answers from someone who lives here.